I, Zombie

I, Zombie is one of only a few zombie games that allows you to take control of the undead. Though it is less serious in tone than most zombie ventures, it is still fun to play. It is difficult to describe exactly what this game is. It’s a cross between a platformer and a tower defense game only this time, you're playing as the bad guy.

The goal is simple: turn everyone into zombies. That task, however, is often easier said than done. The game progression follows a standard platformer format. There are 20 stages to be completed in sequential order and each rewards stars based on how many zombies survive in each level. Like most games of this type, the difficult starts off easy only to grow exceedingly difficult in later levels. Don’t let the cartoonish graphics get to you because the game is challenging. However, the learning curve is gentle enough, so once you get a grasp on things the game shouldn’t be very demanding.

The enemies you turn into zombies will follow your every command. With the touch of a button they can follow, attack, or stay put. You have to use this to your advantage as they are vital to success. Once you figure out how to manage your health properly the game becomes a matter of timing. If you make a move too soon or too late, you may have to start over. Health does regenerate so there is some room for error but the more health lost the slower you go.

A major downside is that the level layouts are repetitive and the locations are constant throughout the entire game. One would think that in a zombie game the scenery changes but alas, they do not. I also found the game to be rather straightforward and unchallenging (with a few exceptions). The end game levels were tricky yet they do not break from the overall formula of the game's design. I am not a fan of games where there only thing that dictates victory or defeat is purely based on the timing of movements. There is no skill factor in success. Every level can be beat with enough trial and error.

I found I, Zombie to be particularly uninteresting. I’m not saying it’s bad but it doesn’t have much to offer. The idea of being the zombie instead of the survivors has been visited before but I, Zombie places that idea in its simplest form. The problem is the sparse content, repetitive gameplay, and dull environments. The lack of creativity or motivation to make meaningful changes left a bad taste in my mouth. The short experience failed to stand out and, though fun while it lasted, was entirely forgettable.

PixelJunk Monsters Ultimate

For what it brings to the table, PixelJunk: Monsters Ultimate is a great package. Tons of content, engaging gameplay, and a cute look really set it apart from other entries in the genre. I think it takes a huge step back in requiring perfect runs in order to progress to new areas, but when compared overall, it's one blemish on the surface of an immensely interesting experience.

CastleStorm

CastleStorm is a welcome evolution of a genre that has quickly become stale. Its multiple layers of gameplay fit together well and provide a surprisingly deep experience that always keeps you engaged in the action.

Worms Clan Wars

I like the game overall, but it tends to grow a bit tired after a few missions from the story. Some of the actions taken on either side were glitchy and would save or kill me. I would throw a bomb and miss, but it would still hit its intended target and I would win. If you enjoyed the rest of the Worms games, you should have this one in your collection. It has its fun moments and can be lighthearted with its dry humor. These Worms can keep you entertained as you go along with the story or create a clan and have fun online. However, I mentioned before that the gameplay is repetitive and becomes frustrating when you unexpectedly jump and fall to your death. I would suggest trying this game out one mission at a time in story mode or Worm Ops to see if you have the skill and patience to keep up with the bots, and then move to Multiplayer and Clan Wars.